Nissan Note: honest reviews from owners about the disadvantages and advantages

Nissan Note is a compact hatchback that has gained popularity due to its practicality, efficiency and low price. However, like any car, it has its strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we collected real reviews from owners, analyzed typical problems and highlighted the key advantages of the model. If you are considering Note for purchase - especially on the secondary market - this information will help avoid unpleasant surprises.

The car was produced in two generations (2006–2013 and 2013–2020), and in some countries, such as Japan, it is still sold under the name Nissan Note Aura. We will focus on the most common versions in Russia with gasoline engines 1.4 And 1.6 liter, as well as hybrid modification e-Power, which appeared later. We will pay special attention to fuel consumption, reliability of gearboxes and typical “diseases” of the suspension.

Nissan Note Specifications: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Before analyzing the reviews, let's look at the hardware. Nissan Note first generation (E11) was equipped with naturally aspirated engines HR15DE (1.5 l, 109 hp) and HR16DE (1.6 l, 110–117 hp), as well as a turbo engine HR12DDR (1.2 l, 98 hp) for the European market. The second generation (E12) received updated versions of these engines, and in 2016 a hybrid system appeared e-Power with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine as a generator.

Transmissions include a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic (outdated design) and a CVT Xtronic CVT, which was installed on models after 2013. The latter is often the subject of controversy: owners praise it for its smooth ride, but criticize it for expensive repairs. Suspension Note simple: front - MacPherson struts, behind - semi-independent beam, which is typical for budget hatchbacks.

Characteristics	Nissan Note E11 (2006–2013)	Nissan Note E12 (2013–2020)
Engines	1.4 (88 hp), 1.5 (109 hp), 1.6 (110–117 hp)	1.2 (98 hp), 1.5 (110 hp), 1.6 (117 hp), e-Power (hybrid)
Gearboxes	Manual transmission-5, automatic transmission-4	Manual transmission 5, CVT, e-Power (continuously variable)
Fuel consumption (combined cycle)	6.5–7.5 l/100 km	5.0–6.2 l/100 km (e-Power — 3.8–4.2 l/100 km)
Trunk volume	250–1332 l	320–1480 l

It is important to consider that the hybrid version of e-Power requires special attention to the battery - replacing it costs 150–200 thousand rubles, and the service life rarely exceeds 150–180 thousand km. Owners also note that the system is sensitive to frost: at temperatures below –20°C, power drops noticeably and fuel consumption increases.

The main advantages of Nissan Note according to owner reviews

Despite the budget position, Nissan Note has a number of undeniable advantages that set it apart from competitors like Toyota Yaris or Honda Jazz. The main advantage is spacious salon with compact dimensions. Thanks to the high seating position and large windshield, visibility is excellent, and rear passengers do not feel cramped (up to 180 cm tall).

The second key advantage is efficiency. Even with naturally aspirated engines, fuel consumption in the city rarely exceeds 8–9 liters, and on the highway it easily falls within 5.5–6.5 l/100 km. Hybrid version e-Power and consumes 4–4.5 liters in the combined cycle, which makes it one of the most economical in the class. Owners also praise:

• 🔧 Low cost of maintenance: consumables (filters, spark plugs, belts) are cheaper than European competitors.
• 🅿️ Convenient parking: small turning radius (4.8 m) and compact dimensions (3.99 m in length).
• 🛠️ Ease of repair: Most of the work (changing oil, brake pads) can be done independently.
• 💺 Interior functionality: many places for small things, height-adjustable steering column, heated seats even in basic trim levels.

Separately worth noting body reliability. Despite the thin metal, owners rarely complain about corrosion - provided they are regularly washed and treated with anti-corrosion agent. In the ranking JD Power according to reliability 2018 Note took 3rd place in the small hatchback class, second only to Toyota Yaris And Mazda 2.

Typical disadvantages and “diseases” of Nissan Note

Unfortunately, even such a practical car has weak points. The main complaint of the owners is noisy suspension. On uneven roads, knocks and squeaks can be heard after 50–60 thousand km. Most often the culprits are:

• 🔩 Stabilizer links — they wear out after 40–50 thousand km (replacement costs 3–5 thousand rubles per pair).
• 🛞 Support bearings — they begin to crunch after 80–100 thousand km.
• 🔧 Rear beam bushings - require replacement every 60–80 thousand km.

The second common problem is electrician. Owners complain about:

• 🔋 Throttle Position Sensor Failures (symptoms: floating speed, jerking during acceleration).
• 💡 Burnt out lamps in headlights - especially in versions with halogen headlights.
• 🔌 Problems with the climate control unit (found in cars 2014–2016).

The third "sick" point - gearboxes:

• ⚙️ 4-speed automatic (models before 2013) - twitches when switching, afraid of overheating.
• 🔄 CVT — requires an oil change every 60 thousand km (the cost of the service is 8–12 thousand rubles). If the regulations are not followed, jerks and vibrations appear.

What happens if you don’t change the oil in the variator?

If the regulations are ignored (60 thousand km), the oil in the CVT loses its properties, which leads to wear of the belt and cones. Symptoms: slipping, jerking during acceleration, noise from the transmission. In advanced cases, the variator needs to be replaced (150–250 thousand rubles).

⚠️ Attention: If when buying a used one Nissan Note with a variator, the seller claims that “there is no need to change the oil” - this is a reason to doubt the honesty. Nissan officially recommends replacement every 60 thousand km, and in difficult conditions (city, traffic jams) - every 40–50 thousand km.

Fuel consumption: real numbers vs official data

The manufacturer declares fuel consumption for Nissan Note at the level of 5.5–6.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle. However, real reviews from owners show a slightly different picture. The spread depends on the type of engine, gearbox and driving style:

• 🚗 1.4 l (manual transmission): 7.5–8.5 l/100 km in the city, 5.5–6.0 l on the highway.
• 🚗 1.6 l (automatic transmission): 9.0–10.5 l in the city, 6.5–7.0 l on the highway.
• 🚗 1.6 l (variator): 8.0–9.0 l in the city, 5.8–6.3 l on the highway.
• ⚡ e-Power (hybrid): 4.5–5.5 l in the city, 4.0–4.5 l on the highway (at temperatures above 0°C).

Owners note that consumption greatly depends on the quality of the fuel. For example, on 92 gasoline the engine HR16DE can “eat” 0.5–1 liter more than on the 95th. The load on the cabin also affects: when fully loaded (4 passengers + luggage), consumption increases by 15–20%.

Fun fact: hybrid version e-Power in cold weather (-15°C and below) it can consume up to 7–8 liters in the city due to the need to warm up the engine-generator. However, in summer, efficiency returns to the stated 4–4.5 l/100 km.

Is it worth buying a used Nissan Note? What to pay attention to

On the secondary market Nissan Note can be found at prices ranging from 300 to 800 thousand rubles (depending on the year and mileage). However, there are a few key points you need to check carefully before purchasing:

Check service history (especially CVT oil changes)

Inspect the stabilizer struts and bushings for play.

Diagnose the throttle sensor (is there any floating speed)

Make sure the electronics are working (windows, climate control, lights)

Check the body for traces of corrosion (especially arches and sills) -->

Pay special attention CVT (if there is one). Ask the seller to provide receipts for oil changes. If they are not there, and the mileage is more than 60 thousand km, be prepared for quick repairs. Also check:

• 🔊 Noises during acceleration — a hum or grinding noise may indicate wear of the variator bearings.
• 🔄 Smooth shifting - jerks or delays when picking up speed are a sign of problems.
• 💧 Oil leaks — check the box tray for traces of smudges.

If you are considering a hybrid version e-Power, be sure to check the condition of the high-voltage battery. With a mileage of more than 100 thousand km, its capacity may drop by 20–30%, which will lead to an increase in fuel consumption. Battery diagnostics will cost 2-3 thousand rubles, but will save you tens of thousands in the future.

⚠️ Attention: Found on the market Nissan Note, imported from Japan. Such cars often have a mileage of 50–100 thousand km. Check history via CarVertical or Carfax — Japanese auction sheets usually contain real data.

Comparison with competitors: which is better - Nissan Note, Toyota Yaris or Honda Jazz?

In the compact hatchback class, Nissan Note there are serious competitors. Let's compare it with the two most popular alternatives − Toyota Yaris And Honda Jazz:

Criterion	Nissan Note	Toyota Yaris	Honda Jazz
Used price (2015, 80 thousand km)	550–650 thousand rubles.	650–750 thousand rubles.	600–700 thousand rubles.
Fuel consumption (city)	7.5–9.0 l	6.5–7.5 l	7.0–8.0 l
Reliability	Average (problems with suspension and CVT)	High (engine life 300+ thousand km)	High (but expensive to maintain)
Interior space	Very spacious (high seating position)	It's a bit cramped in the back	Ultra-functional (Magic Seat)
Maintenance cost	Low	Average	High (original spare parts are expensive)

Toyota Yaris wins in reliability, but loses in price and spaciousness. Honda Jazz offers a unique interior transformation, but is more expensive to maintain. Nissan Note takes the middle ground: it is cheaper to buy and repair, more spacious inside, but inferior in durability.

If you need a car “for every day” with minimal maintenance costs - Note great choice. If the priority is reliability for 200+ thousand km, it is better to take a closer look at Yaris.

Modifications and tuning: what can be improved in Nissan Note

Many owners Nissan Note strive to improve its appearance or dynamics. Here are the most popular modifications:

• 🎨 External tuning:
  • Installation of body kits (splitters, diffusers) from Nismo or TRD.
  • Window tinting (especially important for versions with a light interior).
  • Replacing standard headlights with LED ones (for example, Osram LEDriving).
• 🔧 Technical tuning:
  • Engine chip tuning (for HR16DE you can get +15–20 hp).
  • Installation of a short-throw rocker (improves the clarity of shifts in manual transmissions).
  • Replacing shock absorbers with sports ones (for example, KYB Excel-G).
• 💺 Interior tuning:
  • The steering wheel and gearshift lever are covered in leather or Alcantara.
  • Installing a multimedia system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Noise insulation of wheel arches (reduces noise from gravel).

For example, chip tuning without upgrading the cooling system can lead to engine overheating, and installing too hard shock absorbers will worsen comfort on rough roads.

The “JDM” (Japanese tuning) and “Euro-look” styles are popular among owners. The first involves an aggressive body kit and low stance, the second - a discreet appearance with an emphasis on high-quality materials in the cabin. The budget for a full-fledged tuning is usually 100–300 thousand rubles, depending on the depth of modifications.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Note

Which Nissan Note engine is the most reliable?

Considered the most reliable HR15DE (1.5 l, 109 hp). It is easier to maintain than HR16DE, and is less likely to suffer from throttle problems. Turbo engine HR12DDR (1.2 l) more economical, but sensitive to oil quality. Hybrid version e-Power reliable, but expensive to repair.

How long does the CVT last on a Nissan Note?

Subject to the oil change regulations (every 60 thousand km), the CVT Xtronic CVT can last 150–200 thousand km. However, if you ignore maintenance, the resource is reduced to 80–100 thousand km. The main signs of wear: jerking during acceleration, noise from the gearbox, oil leaks.

Can the Nissan Note e-Power be driven without charging?

Yes, e-Power - This is not a plug-in hybrid, but a system with a generator. The gasoline engine runs continuously to charge the battery, so charging from a wall outlet is not required. However, in cold weather (-20°C and below), fuel consumption can increase to 7–8 l/100 km due to the need to warm up.

What kind of oil to pour into the Nissan Note engine?

Manufacturer recommends oil 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Popular options: Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30, Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30, Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30. For hybrid version e-Power it is better to use original oil Nissan Hybrid Oil.

Is it worth buying a Nissan Note with a mileage of 150+ thousand km?

Purchase Note with such mileage is justified only if there is a full service history. Pay special attention to the condition of the suspension (struts, bushings), variator (if any) and body (corrosion on the arches). Engines HR15DE And HR16DE with proper care, they can last 250–300 thousand km, but repairing the suspension and gearbox will be expensive.